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For years, microstimulation has been used in the form of TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) units for the alleviation of pain, particularly in muscular disorders such as trauma and arthritis. Electrodes are placed on either side of the affected area. Then a micro electric current is passed through the tissue, resulting in relief of pain and accelerating the healing process. This has been an acceptable treatment in both standard medical and chiropractic practices for many years.

When used for patients with AMD, the microcurrent is supplied through a small hand-held unit and administered by the patient. A low voltage current is delivered through electrodes in contact with the skin overlying key nerves around the eye.

In the normally functioning eye, there is a constant process of renewal of cells within the retina, and the waste material from old cells must be reabsorbed. The theory behind microstimulation is the possibility that it improves macular function and aids the removal of the potentially harmful waste products. However, there is no direct evidence that this takes place.

One pilot study reported improvements of vision in patients with AMD, but it is very important to remember that the improvement in vision for many of these patients was slight and may not have been the result of the therapy. Furthermore, the study did not use controls, which makes the results inconclusive. Only through a proper and extensive clinical trial can we document the true value of a therapy.